Active Aggressor
What is an Active Aggressor?
Get Familiar with your three Response options
Incidents involving active aggressors can be unpredictable and may evolve very quickly, so it is important to be familiar with the three response options:
get out, hide and fight.
Get Out
If it is safe to do so, quickly leave the area, leaving your belongings behind.
Warn others but do not wait for them.
Once you are in a safe location, call 911 and then Protective Services (780‑492‑5050).
If you come across an injured person, do not stop, but report the person's location to emergency personnel when you are in a safe place.
Hide
If you cannot escape, get out of sight:
- Lock and block doors, turn off lights and silence your electronic devices.
- Hide under a desk or behind furniture or equipment.
- Stay silent and still, and listen.
If possible, call 911 and then Protective Services (780‑492‑5050). Try to communicate silently: use text messaging, social media, or put a sign in a window.
Stay in your hiding place until emergency responders arrive. They will guide you and help you.
Fight
If you cannot escape or hide, fight. This is an extreme response and appropriate only when you are in immediate danger.
Commit to your actions and behave as aggressively as you can.
Use makeshift weapons such as furniture, backpacks and fire extinguishers.
Be Prepared for an Active Aggressor Event
You can prepare for this type of situation by being more aware of the places you take classes, study or work. Ask yourself "Where are the exits? Do the doors lock? What if...?" This kind of thinking helps prepare for all kinds of emergencies, wherever you may go.
Take a few minutes to watch the university's active aggressor response video.
Video: Shooter on campus: Know you can survive
In this video, you will learn what to do if you ever confront the unthinkable: an individual attacking people at random in a populated area.
Video Content Warning
The video simulates the conditions you might experience during an active shooter event. Some people might find the video disturbing. It might help to view the video with others, such as classmates, friends or colleagues, so you can talk about it after you have watched it.
If you think you need to talk to a professional, there are resources available:
U of A students can contact the University Wellness Services Mental Health Centre, located at 2-600 SUB or call 780‑492‑5205.
U of A staff can contact the university's EFAP provider, Homewood Human Solutions, available 24 hours.
You also have the option of the anonymous, 24-hour support available through Alberta Health Services. Call the Mental Health Help Line (1‑877‑303‑2642 Toll-free).
Helping Individuals at Risk
An individual at risk is a member of the university community who has exhibited worrisome behaviour — words or conduct that, while a clear immediate threat, still gives rise to a reasonable apprehension that they may be at risk of harming themselves or others.
Please visit Helping Individuals at Risk if you have any concerns about the behaviour of a student or a member of staff.